Garden State Times

Senator Joe Pennacchio has expressed his dissatisfaction with a recent court decision regarding New Jersey's state-mandated housing law. The court rejected a motion to temporarily pause the implementation of the law while its constitutionality is being challenged.

“I’m disappointed with the court decision to move forward with the implementation of unaffordable, unrealistic, and unfair state-mandated housing obligations. Asking for a temporary stay was a reasonable and tempered request until the larger case was decided,” stated Sen. Pennacchio. He criticized what he perceives as an agenda by Trenton Democrats, which he claims forces municipalities to comply with extreme mandates that could negatively impact open spaces, residents' quality of life, and increase living costs.

The ruling came from Mercer County Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy, who denied the motion for a temporary halt. A further hearing is set for January 31 to consider dismissing the municipalities’ lawsuit entirely.

In March, Senator Pennacchio introduced legislation (S-431) advocating for Regional Contribution Agreements (RCAs). This initiative aims to assist towns in identifying suitable areas for low-cost housing development while ensuring equitable participation across communities.

“By reinstating RCAs, we can ensure that low-cost housing is built in the places that need it most, in communities that are eager to handle the growth and provide the necessary infrastructure,” added Sen. Pennacchio. He argued that current mandates exclude towns and cities most in need, thus failing both municipalities and intended beneficiaries.

Further details on his bill are available online.